A group of foreign and local observers yesterday termed the just-held national election a free and fair that maintained the international standards. The election observers said voters could cast their votes without any fear and in a very festive mood across the country. The observers appreciated the role of the Bangladesh Election Commission for holding a peaceful participatory election.

They, however, said they are saddened at the loss of lives outside Dhaka mentioning that they feel assured that the Election Commission will investigate the incidents of violence and deaths. Executive Director of Election Monitoring Forum and Secretary General of Saarc Human Rights Foundation M Abed Ali, Canadian observer Tania Foster and Indian observer Dr Gautom Ghosh, among others, spoke.